Central Dauphin does not exactly have it easy in this division, but the Rams are building up their own solid tradition. After winning the Commonwealth and reaching the state semifinals last year, they bring back eight starters this season. It would be very hard to knock them from the top spot.

But not impossible. Cumberland Valleys only two division losses last year were to Central Dauphin, and the Eagles have seven players back looking to reverse that.

Cedar Cliff is another team building up successful habits, and while the Colts probably are not up to the Rams or Eagles, they look like a team in the District 3-AAA playoff mix.

Carlisle looks like it is headed for a rebuilding year, coming off of a six-win season and just four starters back.

The same could be said for Chambersburg, though the Trojans had fewer wins (three) but have more returning starters (eight).

CD East won just once last year, but have nine returning starters. A jump to the playoffs would be asking a lot, but the Panthers are likely to be much improved.

Mifflin County joins the Commonwealth after winning the District 6-AAA title last year. What that translates into when the Wildcats play in this division game in and game out will be interesting to see.